Who owns these parks?

Parks along the Yellowstone are owned and/or managed by a variety of agencies. As a private (non-profit) corporation, YRPA parks are private land but are managed for public use. In some cases, our organizational partners are responsible for maintenance or programming on our properties, as well. YRPA parks include Joel’s Pond, the Montana Audubon Center campus, Amanda White Homestead Park (home of Blue Creek Fishing Access and Blue Creek Bike Park), and John H Dover Memorial Park.

YRPA also provides assistance to a variety of public agencies, including the City of Billings (Norm’s Island, Riverfront Park, Mystic Commons), Yellowstone County (Two Moon Park, Earl Guss Park), and the US Bureau of Land Management (Four Dances Recreation Area). We are also involved in trails that connect these parks, which span over a variety of jurisdictions.

Is camping allowed at YRPA parks?

All YRPA parks are day-use only. No camping or overnight parking is allowed. Also not allowed are hunting, horses, campfires, firearms, fireworks, and motorized vehicles. We do allow bicycles, though ask that you yield to pedestrians and keep your speed family-friendly.

Are dogs allowed?

Dogs are allowed at Joel’s Pond and Amanda White Homestead Park though NOT at the Montana Audubon Center campus or at John H Dover Memorial Park. Service animals are, of course, welcome.

Rules regarding dogs at public agency-managed parks vary, though generally dogs are allowed if under control by owners. In all cases, we ask that you clean up after your dog; dog poop removal is a huge task along the entire park system.

Are there snakes at the parks?

Yup. Rattlesnakes, Bull Snakes (Gopher Snakes), and other slithery creatures are an important part of the natural habitat in our parks. Snakes are more likely to be active during hot weather and may sun themselves on the trails. If you see a snake, we ask that you simply walk around and/or use a different trail. Snakes do hibernate during the cold months.